How does O’Neill Treat the Theme of Sin and Retribution in Desire Under the Elms? 

Answer

How does O’Neill treat the theme of sin and retribution in Desire Under the Elms? 

“Desire Under the Elms” (1924) is a modern tragedy written by Eugene O’Neill (1888 – 1953). The writer shows the play’s significant characters’ sin and punishment. He uses these sins from Greek myth with slight differences. These are the diseases of modern society.

Sin and retribution: The term “sin and retribution” is one of the best-known terms in the works of different types of literary figures. Retribution is the result of something. In the play, retribution is used for the sins of the characters. The term “sin and retribution” develops a play through a journey. We can compare sins and retributions with inputs and outputs. Let us discuss the themes of sin and retribution in the play.

Cabot’s Sin and Retribution: Cabot is the father of Simeon, Peter, and Eben. He is 75 years old, and Abbie’s husband is 35 years old. After scanning the play, we get his sin. First of all, his sin is that he is a very orthodox person. For that reason, he has no good relationship with his family members. His second notable sin, according to Eben, is that he takes forcibly the ownership of the farm from his mother and kills his mother by hard work tendency. Eben says to Simeon and Peter in Part 1 Scene 2:

You have no right to the farm at all. My mother was not your mother. This farm belonged to her. Our father took it from her without having any right to it. Now that my mother is dead, the farm belongs to me.

Then, we come to know that he had illegal relations with Minnie, the local prostitute. He takes his retribution by staying lonesome forever. He also loses his money. He gets insulted by the neighbors.

Abbie’s Sin and Retribution: Abbie is the heroine of the play. She is the step-mom of Eben, the hero of the play. After scanning the play, we get her sin.